US State Department Approves Sale of 48 F-35 Jets to Saudi Arabia

The U.S. State Department announced Thursday its approval for the sale of 48 F-35A fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, a deal valued at approximately $24 billion. The transaction still requires congressional approval.

Under the terms of the agreement, the jets will be sold without certain components, preventing Saudi Arabia from making modifications to the aircraft's systems. The State Department justified the sale by citing the need to bolster Saudi Arabia's deterrence and self-defense capabilities, particularly in light of escalating conflict with the Houthis and to enhance operational coordination with U.S. and NATO forces.

U.S. officials sought to reassure Israel, stating that the deal would not disrupt the regional military balance. They also indicated that the sale would not compromise U.S. military readiness or necessitate the deployment of additional American personnel in Saudi Arabia.

However, the approval comes amid concerns raised by U.S. intelligence officials regarding potential Chinese espionage. Reports suggest that intelligence analysts fear China could gain access to F-35 technology through espionage in Saudi Arabia or via its existing military and security partnerships with the kingdom.

Some security officials believe the cooperation with Saudi Arabia could reopen avenues for expanding the Abraham Accords.